Patent application title: System and method for hydrogen-based energy source

Abstract:

A fuel cell system is disclosed that comprises a fuel cell unit operable
to store at least one of water and hydrogen. At least one membrane is
provided at one or more ends of the fuel cell unit. The membrane is
operable to enable a flow of oxygen through the at least a portion of
fuel cell unit. Further, the membrane is further operable to prevent
water from flowing through at least a portion of the fuel cell. Moreover,
an electrical source in operative engagement with the fuel cell unit. The
fuel cell operates in a first mode to collect the hydrogen when receiving
voltage from the electrical source, and further the fuel cell operates in
a second mode to generate electricity using the hydrogen. The fuel cell
unit is preferably stackable via a combination of conductible studs and
receptacles.

Claims:

1. A fuel cell system, comprising:a fuel cell unit operable to store at
least one of water and hydrogen;at least one membrane provided at at
least one end of the fuel cell unit and operable to enable oxygen to flow
through at least a portion of the fuel cell unit, and further operable to
prevent at least some of the water from flowing through the fuel cell;
andan electrical source operable to generate a current across the fuel
cell unit,wherein the fuel cell units operates in a first mode to collect
the hydrogen when receiving voltage from the electrical source, and
further wherein the fuel cell operates in a second mode to generate
electricity using the hydrogen.

2. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising at least one stud
coupled to a first fuel cell unit and at least one receptacle coupled to
a second fuel cell unit, wherein the receptacle from the second fuel cell
unit is operable to receive the stud from the first fuel cell unit
thereby joining the first and second fuel cell units and enabling the
first and second fuel cell units to operate in tandem.

3. The fuel cell system of claim 2, wherein the at least one stud and at
least one receptacle are formed of a conductive material.

4. The fuel cell system of claim 2, wherein a plurality of the fuel cell
units are joined by a plurality of respective studs and respective
receptacles, and further wherein the plurality of fuel cell units are
operable in parallel or in serial fashion.

5. The fuel cell system of claim 2, wherein the at least one stud and at
least one receptacle is operable for a user to select a particular
polarity.

6. The fuel cell system of claim 2, wherein at least one of the at least
one stud and the at least one receptacle is formed of a resilient
material.

7. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising at least two studs
coupled to a first fuel cell unit and at least two receptacles coupled to
a second fuel cell unit, wherein the receptacles from the second fuel
cell unit are operable to receive the studs from the first fuel cell unit
thereby joining the first and second fuel cell units and enabling the
first and second fuel cell units to operate in tandem.

8. The fuel cell system of claim 7, wherein one of the studs is operable
for a positively charged connection and one of the other studs is
operable for a negatively charged connection.

9. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising a polarity
alteration member operable to select a respective polarity for the fuel
cell unit.

10. The fuel cell system of claim 1, wherein the electrical source
comprises a photovoltaic cell.

11. The fuel system of claim 10, wherein electrical source is operable to
cause electrolysis.

12. The fuel cell system of claim 1, wherein the hydrogen is produced by
electrolysis.

13. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising an access section
provided the fuel cell unit and providing access to an inner portion of
the fuel cell unit.

14. The fuel cell system of claim 13, wherein the inner portion includes
at least one of the at least one membrane and a storage area for water.

15. The fuel cell system of claim 1, wherein the fuel cell unit is formed
a substantially transparent material.

16. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising a vent in the at
least one membrane, wherein the fuel cell unit generates heat during the
second mode, and further wherein the heat is channeled through the vent
and out of the fuel cell unit.

17. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising a switch provided
with the fuel cell unit, wherein the switch is operable to cause the fuel
cell to operate in the first mode or in the second mode.

18. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising a separator plate
operable to receive hydrogen atoms and to separate the hydrogen atoms
into hydrogen protons and free electrons.

19. The fuel cell system of claim 18, wherein the water stored in the fuel
cell unit causes the hydrogen to travel to the separator plate.

20. The fuel cell system of claim 1, wherein water is produced during the
generation of the electricity, and the water produced during the
generation of the electricity is used for producing the hydrogen.

21. The fuel cell system of claim 1, further comprising producing water
during the generation of the electricity, and using the water produced
during the generation of the electricity for producing the hydrogen.

22. A method for generating electricity, the method comprising:storing at
least one of hydrogen and water in a fuel cell unit;providing at least
one membrane at at least one end of the fuel cell unit, wherein the at
least one membrane is operable to enable oxygen to flow through at least
a portion of the fuel cell unit, and is further operable to prevent water
from flowing through the fuel cell; andoperably coupling an electrical
source to the fuel cell unit to generate a current across the fuel cell
unit,wherein the fuel cell units operates in a first mode to collect the
hydrogen when receiving voltage from the electrical source, and further
wherein the fuel cell operates in a second mode to generate electricity
using the hydrogen.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising coupling at least one stud
to a first fuel cell unit and coupling at least one receptacle coupled to
a second fuel cell unit, wherein the receptacle from the second fuel cell
unit are operable to receive the stud from the first fuel cell unit
thereby joining the first and second fuel cell units and enabling the
first and second fuel cell units to operate in tandem.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising operating the first and
second fuel cell units successively to provide an uninterrupted supply of
electricity over time.

25. The method of claim 23, further comprising forming the at least one
stud and at least one receptacle of a conductive material.

26. The method of claim 23, further comprising joining a plurality of the
fuel cell units by a plurality of respective studs and respective
receptacles, and operating the plurality of fuel cell units are in
parallel or in serial fashion.

27. The method of claim 23, further comprising selecting a particular
parity via the at least one stud and at least one receptacle.

28. The method of claim 23, further comprising forming the at least one
stud and the at least one receptacle of a resilient material.

29. The method of claim 22, further comprising coupling at least two studs
to a first fuel cell unit and coupling at least two receptacles to a
second fuel cell unit, wherein the receptacles from the second fuel cell
unit are operable to receive the studs from the first fuel cell unit
thereby joining the first and second fuel cell units and enabling the
first and second fuel cell units to operate in tandem.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising increasing at least one of
a combined voltage and combined wattage from the first fuel cell unit and
second fuel cell unit.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein one of the studs is operable for a
positively charged connection and one of the other studs is operable for
a negatively charged connection.

32. The method of claim 22, further comprising providing a polarity
alteration member operable to select a respective polarity for the fuel
cell unit.

35. The method of claim 22, further comprising producing the hydrogen via
electrolysis.

36. The method of claim 22, further comprising providing an access section
in the fuel cell unit and providing access to an inner portion of the
fuel cell unit via the access section.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the inner portion includes at least
one of the at least one membrane and a storage area for water.

38. The method of claim 22, further comprising forming the fuel cell unit
of a substantially transparent material.

39. The method of claim 22, further comprising:providing a vent in the at
least one membrane;generates heat during the second mode; andchanneling
the heat through the vent and out of the fuel cell unit.

40. The method of claim 22, further comprising providing a switch with the
fuel cell unit, wherein the switch is operable to cause the fuel cell to
operate in the first mode or in the second mode.

41. The method of claim 22, further comprising providing a separator plate
with the fuel cell unit operable to receive hydrogen atoms and to
separate the hydrogen atoms into hydrogen protons and free electrons.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the water stored in the fuel cell unit
causes the hydrogen to travel to the separator plate.

43. A public venue provided with amplified acoustics, the venue powered by
a fuel cell system, the fuel cell system comprising:a fuel cell unit
operable to store at least one of water and hydrogen;at least one
membrane provided at at least one end of the fuel cell unit and operable
to enable oxygen to flow through at least a portion of the fuel cell
unit, and further operable to prevent water from flowing through the fuel
cell; andan electrical source operable to generate a current across the
fuel cell unit, wherein the fuel cell units operates in a first mode to
collect the hydrogen when receiving voltage from the electrical source,
and further wherein the fuel cell operates in a second mode to generate
electricity using the hydrogen.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001]This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/889,107, filed on Feb. 9, 2007 and
entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HYDROGEN-BASED ENERGY SOURCE, the entire
contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002]1. Field of the Invention

[0003]The present invention relates generally to energy, and, more
particularly, to a fuel cell medium that provides electricity, for
example, in remote locations.

[0004]2. Description of the Related Art

[0005]Producing electricity from hydrogen is known. In known applications,
an electrolyzer is used for producing a source of hydrogen from water. As
known in the art, hydrogen and oxygen are produced by electrolysis of
water. A water electrolysis reaction occurs when sufficient energy is
applied to break the water's oxygen-hydrogen-bond.

[0006]As known in the art, electrolysis includes an electrochemical
process involving the decomposition of an electrolyte. During
electrolysis, an electrolyte decomposes when an external DC voltage is
applied to two electrodes, i.e., an anode and a cathode, which are in
contact with the electrolyte. The voltage equals or exceeds a threshold
value, which, depending upon the particular electrolyte, causes the
electrolyte to decompose and the hydrogen-water bond to break. The
minimum voltage necessary to decompose the electrolyte is referred to as
the "decomposition voltage."

[0007]Furthermore and as known in the art, some proton exchange-membrane
or polymer electrolyte membrane ("PEM") electrolyzers enable the
production of hydrogen and oxygen through the electrolysis of water. PEM
electrolyzers include electrolyte material, which includes a
proton-conducting polymer membrane. When the membrane becomes wet,
sulfonic acid attached thereto detaches, and the membrane becomes acidic
and proton-conducting. Protons, i.e., positively charged hydrogen ions,
pass through the membrane, while anions, i.e., negatively charged ions,
do not pass through the membrane.

[0008]Thus and as known in the art, PEM electrolyzers separate pure water
into hydrogen and oxygen when a DC voltage is applied to electrodes
(i.e., cathode and anode) provided with the PEM electrolyzers. When the
DC voltage exceeds the decomposition voltage, the electrolyzer splits
pure water into hydrogen and oxygen.

[0009]Also and as known in the art, fuel cell technology allows the use of
hydrogen as fuel to produce electricity. For example, hydrogen collected
as a function of PEM electrolyzers is used in fuel cells. Moreover,
several individual fuel cells are combinable in a unit, referred to in
the art as a "fuel cell stack." A fuel cell stack is desirable to achieve
an appreciable output voltage and/or current. Thus, in order to achieve
appreciable output voltages, several individual fuel cells must be
combined in a unit called a fuel cell stack.

[0010]Adjacent fuel cells can be connected by a separator, which may be
formed as a plate. The plate is operable to provide electrical
connections between the respective fuel cells. Also, the plates can
provide a gas transport towards and away from the respective fuel cells.
Further heat that is produced by the respective fuel cells can be
dissipated by the separator plate. Moreover, adjacent cells can be sealed
by the separator plate, thereby preventing fuel and oxidant leakage.

[0011]In some known electrolyzers, plates are attached to the ends of a
fuel cell stack. The plates are operable to electrically connect one or
more external circuits and can also provide connections for gas flow. Due
to production of heat, one or more fuel stack may be further provided
with cooling, including by air or water.

[0012]In known hydrogen-based fuel cells, electrical production occurs as
a function of hydrogen atoms contacting the plate, effectively taking
electrons from the hydrogen atoms and producing free electrons. Hydrogen
generally exists in nature as di-hydrogen (H2) molecules. Every two
di-hydrogen molecules (2H2) are include 4 hydrogen protons and 4
free electrons of potential energy (4H++4e-). Further and as
known, oxygen atoms are attracted to the positively charged hydrogen
protons (4H+) due to the lone pair of electrons on the outer shell
of oxygen. Oxygen exists in nature as di-oxygen (O2) molecules. The
oxygen atoms bond with the hydrogen protons, thereby producing atoms of
water and leaving the free electrons, thereby generating electricity
(4H++4e-+O2→4H++O2+4e-→2H.sup-
.2O+4e-).

[0013]Also in known electrolyzers, a respective number of individual fuel
cells determines a particular output voltage. The cells are electrically
connected in series, such that the addition or subtraction of a fuel
increases or decreases the output voltage, respectively. As known, the
total output voltage is determined by the sum of the each fuel cell's
output voltage.

[0014]Further, it is known to store hydrogen as a metal hydride, for
example, in the crystal lattice of certain metals or metal alloys. As
known in the art, an exothermic (heat producing) reaction occurs when
hydrogen bonds to the metal (or alloy) to form a metal hydride, and the
hydrogen is stored. By applying heat to a metal hydride, the hydrogen is
releasable and, thereafter, usable in a fuel cell.

[0015]Storing hydrogen as a metal hydride is a preferred way to store
hydrogen as it is believed to be safer and easier to handle. Further, a
small volume of metal hydride is operable to store a considerable amount
of hydrogen and sufficient to provide a considerable amount of fuel to
produce electricity. A known shortcoming of storing metal hydride for the
production of electricity is that the energy storage density per mass is
low and, therefore, the storage tanks are considerably heavy.

SUMMARY

[0016]In a preferred embodiment, a fuel cell system is disclosed that
comprises a fuel cell unit operable to store at least one of water and
hydrogen. Further, at least one membrane is provided at one or more ends
of the fuel cell unit. The membrane is operable to enable a flow of
oxygen through at least a portion of fuel cell unit. Further, the
membrane is further operable to prevent water from flowing through at
least a portion of the fuel cell. The system includes an electrical
source in operative engagement with the fuel cell unit. The fuel cell
operates in a first mode to collect the hydrogen when receiving voltage
from the electrical source, and further the fuel cell operates in a
second mode to generate electricity using the hydrogen.

[0017]In an example embodiment, the fuel cell system further includes at
least one stud that is coupled to a first fuel cell unit and at least one
receptacle coupled to a second fuel cell unit. The receptacle from the
second fuel cell unit is operable to receive the stud from the first fuel
cell unit thereby joining the first and second fuel cell units and
enabling the first and second fuel cell units to operate in tandem.
Further the fuel cell system the at least one stud and at least one
receptacle are formed of a conductive material.

[0018]In an example embodiment, a plurality of the fuel cell units are
joined by a plurality of respective studs and respective receptacles. The
plurality of fuel cell units are operable in parallel or in serial
fashion. Preferably, one of the studs is operable for a positively
charged connection and one of the other studs is operable for a
negatively charged connection.

[0019]In an example embodiment, the at least one stud and at least one
receptacle are operable for a user to select a particular polarity.
Further, at least one of the at least one stud and the at least one
receptacle is formed of a resilient material.

[0020]Other features and advantages will become apparent from the
following description that refers to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]For the purpose of illustration, there is shown in the drawings a
form which is presently preferred, it being understood, however, that the
invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and
instrumentalities shown. The features and advantages of the teachings
herein will become apparent from the following description that refers to
the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022]FIG. 1 is a perspective view and illustrates a hydrogen fuel energy
unit in accordance with a preferred or example embodiment ("preferred
embodiment");

[0023]FIG. 1A is another perspective view of the hydrogen fuel cell unit
shown in FIG. 1;

[0024]FIG. 2 is a perspective view and illustrates additional elements
within a hydrogen fuel energy unit in accordance with a preferred
embodiment;

[0025]FIG. 3 is a perspective view and shows the hydrogen fuel energy unit
of FIG. 1, and further illustrates a polarity alteration member included
in the energy unit;

[0029]In accordance with the various embodiments described and illustrated
herein, a portable and extremely durable energy source is provided that
functions independently to produce, for example, electricity. Referring
to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements,
there is shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A illustrations of the energy source and
referred, generally, herein as hydrogen fuel energy unit 100. In the
examples illustrated and described herein, hydrogen is the preferred
element as a fuel source to be converted to electricity. It is envisioned
herein, however, that alternative chemical elements may be used as fuel
for electricity without departing from the spirit of the teachings
herein. Thus, the use of the name hydrogen fuel energy unit 100 and the
various examples included herein are exemplary, and not intended to be
limiting exclusively to the use of hydrogen.

[0030]In a preferred embodiment, hydrogen fuel energy units 100 are
provided in a rectangular brick-shape and, as described in greater detail
below, have fuel cells that are stacked and embedded therein. Further, in
a preferred embodiment, hydrogen fuel energy unit 100 of the teachings
herein are made of a clear, transparent, or translucent material, such as
LUCITE. Of course, one skilled in the art will recognize that alternative
shapes are envisioned herein, such as triangular, round or pyramidal. In
one embodiment, hydrogen fuel energy units 100 can be combined to form a
geodesic dome that may be integrated with an existing structure, such as
a residential structure, or may be used to construct a structure (e.g., a
residential structure). A geodesic dome, for example, provided with a
residential structure or as a residential structure provides
architectural benefits, as well. Further, alternative materials can be
used to construct unit 100. Preferably, construction standards emerge in
connection with various components associated with the structure, and one
or more companies preferably contribute to build the respective
components.

[0031]Moreover, the individual units 100 of the energy source in
accordance with teachings herein are preferably able to be stacked and
interconnected to create a larger and more powerful energy source.
Preferably, the interconnection is provided by simply mating two of the
units 100 together. In one embodiment, studs 102 are provided on one end
of the unit 100 and receptacle portions 104 to receive studs 102 are
provided at another end of units 100. Also shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A,
membrane 106 is preferably an air permeable membrane, such as GORE-TEX,
that operates to filter water and other material, but passage and flow of
oxygen into unit 100. In an alternative embodiment, membrane 106 is on
two opposing long sides of the brick, as opposed to on the ends, as shown
in the drawing. As known in the art, oxygen is used by hydrogen fuel
cells during the production of electricity. A plurality of fuel cells are
preferably provided within each hydrogen fuel energy unit 100, such as
illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0032]In operation in a preferred embodiment, sunlight is converted to
electricity in hydrogen fuel energy unit 100, for example, using a
photovoltaic cell (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, hydrogen fuel
energy unit 100 has mono-crystalline silica solar cells that are provided
on the sides of unit 100. In one embodiment, solar cells are impregnated
in the unit's 100 material, such as LUCITE. Solar power technology that
uses solar cells or solar photovoltaic arrays is preferably provided to
convert energy from the sun into electricity. The electricity produced
from the sunlight is used by a PEM (or other) electrolyzer within unit
100 to separate hydrogen from pure water or other source (e.g., metal
hydride). Therefore, hydrogen is produced from pure water as a function
of electrolysis. The hydrogen is converted into electricity, for example,
using one or more fuel cells, in which the hydrogen is recombined with
oxygen to produce electricity.

[0033]As described in more detail below, hydrogen fuel energy unit 100
preferably operates to collect hydrogen for eventual conversion to
electricity, or operates to convert hydrogen to electricity. In a
preferred embodiment, unit 100 does not operate to collect hydrogen and
provide electricity simultaneously. Accordingly, hydrogen fuel energy
unit 100 preferably includes a switching mechanism that causes unit 100
to operate in a hydrogen collection mode (i.e., during electrolysis) or
in an electricity providing mode. In one embodiment, the switching
mechanism is a pressure sensitive switch that senses when a predefined
buildup of hydrogen has been collected, and switches unit 100 from
collecting hydrogen to provide electricity therefrom. In alternative
embodiment, switching mechanism recognizes when a water level has reached
a predefined position, thereby indicating an amount of hydrogen, and
switches unit 100 from collecting hydrogen to providing electricity, and
vice-versa. Therefore, unit 100 preferably alternates between hydrogen
collection mode and electricity generation mode, and operates accordingly
as a function of the switch.

[0034]In an embodiment, a switch mechanism that causes unit 100 to operate
in a hydrogen collection mode or in an electricity providing mode is
formatted as an air pressure switch. As hydrogen is being produced, for
example, during electrolysis, pressure in fuel energy unit 100 increases.
The pressure increase causes the switch to activate, preferably after a
predefined pressure is reached. Thereafter, as pressure reduces as a
function the production of electricity, the switch is again activated and
fuel energy unit 100 reverts to a mode for the production of hydrogen.

[0035]During the production of electricity, pure water is a natural
byproduct, and the water is channeled back into hydrogen fuel energy unit
100 for future use during electrolysis. Thus, in accordance with a
preferred embodiment, hydrogen fuel energy unit 100 collects sunlight and
converts the sunlight to electricity. That electricity is used to convert
water to hydrogen during electrolysis, and electricity is produced from
the hydrogen. Water is a natural byproduct during the production of
electricity, and used for future electrolysis.

[0036]During the production of electricity, for example, some water may
not condense to be used for the production of hydrogen during
electrolysis, and instead escapes through membrane 106. Accordingly, pure
water may be added to unit 100 in order to restore the unit's efficiency
and to increase electricity production and the longevity of unit 100.

[0037]In one embodiment, receptacle portions 104 are provided within unit
100. Preferably, studs 102 are slightly larger in diameter than that of
receptacle portions 104. When two hydrogen fuel energy units 100 are
pressed together, the studs 102 are received by the receptacles portions
104, and the studs 102 are essentially pressed into and around the
receptacle portions 104. The receptacle portions 104 are preferably
fashioned with a resilient material, such that portions of receptacle 104
press against the studs 102. Thus, friction prevents two hydrogen fuel
energy units 100 from coming apart. The result is a coupling of a
plurality of hydrogen fuel energy units 100 as a function of friction and
without a requirement for glue, or other type of fastener. Similar
structures are known, such as provided in the known children's toy, LEGO.

[0038]In a preferred embodiment, studs 102 and receptacles 104 are formed
of a conductive material. Accordingly, studs 102 and receptacles 104
preferably operate as electric contact points between a plurality of
hydrogen fuel energy units 100.

[0039]FIG. 2 is a perspective view and illustrates hydrogen fuel energy
unit 100 that houses five stacked fuel cell elements 108, in accordance
with a preferred embodiment. Each fuel cell 108 preferably includes a
metal plate (not shown) that may be constructed of a hard metal, such as
platinum, to operate as the proton exchange-membrane during electrolysis.

[0040]Continuing with reference to FIG. 2, a plurality of tubes 110 store
water and/or hydrogen. As hydrogen is formed during electrolysis, the
hydrogen preferably replaces the water in the tubes 110. In the example
shown in FIG. 2, fuel cells 108 are held in place by screw members 112.
Also in the example shown in FIG. 2, electrolytic membrane 114 is shown
for each fuel cell in fuel cell stack. In FIG. 2, four fuel cells are
shown and stacked together. Preferably, fuel cells are joined together
such that they receive water for electrolysis from the same source,
produce hydrogen to the same source, and draw hydrogen from the same
source to produce electricity. One skilled in the art will recognize that
alternative means of holding fuel cells 108 in place is envisioned
herein.

[0041]Over time, hydrogen fuel energy unit 100 may require maintenance.
For example, to improve the efficiency of unit 100, pure water may be
added. Moreover, membrane 106 may eventually require replacement in order
to improve the ability for unit 100 to receive oxygen and/or filter out
water. In one embodiment, an access is provided, such as a boltable
and/or removable panel or door, with unit 100 that enables access to
membrane 106 and/or to enable a user to add water to unit 100. In this
way, unit 100 is formatted with an access for maintenance.

[0042]Preferably, studs 102 and receptacles 104 of hydrogen fuel energy
unit 100 are formed of conductive material to enable the hydrogen fuel
energy units 100 to operate in tandem, and further to enable a user to
define a particular polarity. By altering a hydrogen fuel energy unit's
100 polarity, a plurality of units can be connected in series, thereby
increasing the overall voltage output. Alternatively, a plurality of
bricks can be connected in parallel, thereby increasing the overall
amperage.

[0043]FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating hydrogen fuel energy unit
100, and further illustrates a polarity alteration member preferably
included in stud 102. Preferably, stud 102 is provided such that polarity
can be altered by a user by simply pressing and turning stud 102 in a
respective position. For example, turning stud 102 in clockwise rotation
selects a negative polarity, while turning stud 102 in a
counter-clockwise rotation selects a positive polarity. Alternative
embodiments are envisioned herein. For example, stud 102 is provided with
a first end and a second end, and stud 102 may be removable. In this
alternative embodiment, a respective polarity may be selected by the user
inserting a respective end (i.e., first end or second end) into
receptacle portion 104. In yet another alternative embodiment, a
switching member may be provided with stud 102 and/or receptacle 104 that
enables a user to select a respective polarity.

[0044]Enabling a user to switch polarity is a significant feature of the
teachings herein as it enables a user to operate a plurality of hydrogen
fuel energy units 100 in series or in parallel. Thus, such as batteries
(e.g., AAA batteries, AA batteries or the like) in a respective battery
compartment, units 100 can operate in series or in parallel.

[0045]FIG. 4 illustrates a stack of ten hydrogen fuel energy units 100. In
the example shown in FIG. 4, the units 100 operate independently, and
each unit 100 is preferably operable to produce 15 volts and 50 watts of
power.

[0046]FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a respective connectivity of a plurality of
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 in order to provide varying electrical
voltage and amperage. FIG. 5 illustrates ten hydrogen fuel energy units
100 that are connected in series, for example, as a function of the
polarity setting, as described above. In the example shown in FIG. 5, ten
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 are connected in series to produce 150
volts and 50 watts of power.

[0047]FIG. 6 illustrates ten hydrogen fuel energy units 100 that are
connected in a parallel stack, for example, as a function of a respective
selected polarity. In the example shown in FIG. 6, ten hydrogen fuel
energy units 100 are connected in a parallel stack to produce 15 volts
and 500 watts of power.

[0048]Thus, as indicated in the FIGS. 5 and 6, connecting and operating a
plurality of hydrogen fuel energy units 100 in tandem serves to increase
the amount of electricity that can be produced. Further, voltage or
amperage can be respectively increased as a function of connecting the
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 in series or in parallel.

[0049]It is envisioned herein that the plurality of hydrogen fuel energy
units 100 operate over time to produce significant amounts of
electricity. In general, it is believed that there is an optimal 2.5:1
ratio of time required for producing hydrogen (e.g., during electrolysis)
to the time in which electricity, as in line voltage, is provided. For
example, four and one half hours of collecting sunlight and producing
hydrogen results in, generally, one hour of converting the hydrogen to
electricity as an electrical supply. Of course, one skilled in the art
will recognize that various environmental and/or external factors may
affect this performance ratio. For example, in case sunlight is not
available during a long stretch of overcast days, or in case unit 100
becomes dirty over time, the ratio may be much higher, such as 5:1,
thereby temporarily decreasing the overall efficiency of unit 100. As
improvements in known solar panel technology and fuel cell technology
emerge, including with regard to the polymer membrane, the charging
efficiency and electricity production of fuel cell unit 100 improve.

[0050]In one embodiment, the plurality of hydrogen fuel energy units 100
can operate successively over time to enable a regular supply of
electricity. For example, a first two of ten hydrogen fuel energy units
100 supply electricity for one hour while the remaining eight units 100
collect and store hydrogen. A second two of the ten units 100,
thereafter, provide electricity for one hour. Thereafter, a third two
units 100 provide electricity for an hour, thereafter the fourth two
units 100 provide electricity, and, thereafter, the remaining two units
100 provide electricity. Thereafter, the cycle beings again. In this way,
a regular supply of electricity is provided without interruption, as most
units 100 collect and store hydrogen while other units 100 supply line
voltage. In one embodiment, unit 100 is provided with processing
capability, preferably, comprising one or more circuits and switches (not
shown), as known in the art that enables the control for successive
operation of a plurality of units 100 to provide a regular supply of
electricity over time.

[0051]Further, it is believed that voltage and amperage is better
controlled with hydrogen-based electricity than that provided, for
example, from photovoltaic processes. By converting hydrogen to
electricity, the teachings herein preclude the requirements for
additional components, such as rectifiers and other equipment, known in
the art as line conditioning, that may be required for purifying output
line voltage. In other words, the voltage condition is improved as a
function of the converted hydrogen electricity.

[0052]It is envisioned herein that the solutions provided herein are
particularly useful for hydrogen powered requirements that have
humanitarian, educational, and commercial value. The hydrogen fuel energy
units 100 represent a portable and extremely durable energy source that
function independently and that also can be stacked and interconnected to
create a larger energy source. One example use of the electricity that is
produced by the teachings herein include running a well in a remote
location with little supervision. Thus, a high technical and
sophisticated solution that is relatively simple to implement can be
provided for in low technical scenarios.

[0053]Further, the teachings herein preferably regard the development and
mass production of the hydrogen fuel energy units 100 such that the
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 convert sunlight into DC power. The
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 can sustain long periods of abuse and
neglect, and can be easily stacked to increase their power, such as
illustrated in FIGS. 1-6. Further, the hydrogen fuel energy units 100 can
be structured in combinations of series and parallel circuits to either
increase the combined voltage or increase the combined amperage. Among
countless other uses, a small retaining wall of hydrogen fuel energy
units 100 is useable, therefore, to power a well in a remote location.
The humanitarian benefits of the teachings herein are evident, therefore,
to one skilled in the art.

[0054]In another example application and embodiment, an outdoor concert
venue is provided that is powered by hydrogen fuel energy units 100. In
this example embodiment, the components of the system, including solar
driven electrolysis, low pressure hydrogen storage, and fuel cells are
all constructed in a clear LUCITE medium which allows for the power
source to become part of the entertainment and art and draws a new level
of attention to the possibilities. The hydrogen fuel energy units 100
power many (if not all) elements of the venue, including, for example,
the stage, lights, concessions, and even transportation units, such as
golf carts. A benefit of the teachings herein is that the electricity is
produced in a clean manner, and because the hydrogen fuel energy units
100 are clear, educational benefits are provided, as well. By bringing
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 to a site one or more days in advance,
solar energy is collected to produce all the hydrogen necessary to supply
electricity for the event. The venue may be stationary or mobile,
depending upon its size and respective application. Other applications
are envisioned herein, and can range from an individual podium to a
large-scaled concert stage.

[0055]Further, the PEM fuel cells produce oxygen and water, which provide
bubbles that travel down tubes and contribute to the overall aesthetics.
Other aesthetically pleasing features are envisioned, including lighting
hydrogen fuel energy units 100 using colored light, lasers or the like.
In this way, various aesthetics are provided in addition to
environmentally friendly and resource conservation features.

[0056]In another embodiment, an outdoor concert or other public gathering
venue is powered by one or more hydrogen fuel sources without requiring
the use of hydrogen fuel energy units 100. For example, a portable
electrical supply source fueled by hydrogen is provided for supplying
electricity to various devices required for a public venue.
Alternatively, large-scaled hydrogen fueled electricity supplies may be
provided for large and stationary public venues.

[0057]Moreover, a development of a method and mode to promote mass
production of construction elements (such as shingles, siding, paver
bricks, and insulation) that work together to provide an energy source.
This is preferably done in a cellular automata manner. In other words,
multiple simple machines work together to form a complex machine. In this
way, each product is stackable in numbers in a simple manner increases
each product's function. Hence each product type unites to form one
"machine" providing a given function. (i.e. all shingles working together
to collect sunlight). Moreover, each separate little machine combines
with other little machines to create a larger more complicated machine
that provides energy. This is such as solar collection, hydrogen
production, and electricity production and storage. As known in the art,
cellular automata involves individual machines operating together to form
a more complicated machine. This preferably tessellates. In one example
each of a plurality of solar shingles are installed in a roof, and work
together to generate electricity. The electricity generated on the roof
acts as part of a "fuel cell house."

[0058]Additionally, hydrogen fuel cell unit 100 may be provided as a
freely distributed standard for construction that provides for multiple
manufacturers to make products that "snap" together in the cell structure
and provide energy. This may result in a society and consortium that
maintains communication among manufacturers and vendors to ensure the
success of the combined efforts. Further, the teachings herein provide an
ability to build a home where much of the construction components
conspire together to generate and store power. For example, carbon fiber
is operable for hydrogen collection and house insulation. Solar cells are
operable to assist with electrolysis, and as shingles.

[0059]The electricity production mode of fuel cell unit 100 is exothermic,
whereby heat dissipates from the plate and the water via the membrane,
which acts as a vent. Hence, fuel cell unit 100 ventilates heat, which
can be directed through one or more membranes. Further, fuel cells are
provided as energy sources and as window material. In an embodiment, fuel
cell units 100 are constructable to release heat generated during the
electricity production phase in a predetermined direction. Thus, a window
comprising one or more fuel cell units 100 enable a flow of heat
inwardly, thereby heating a structure, such as a house, and providing
other emergency and humanitarian solutions.

[0060]It is believed by the inventor that there is a receding of snow in
Alaska directly due to increased surface area of blacktop driveways and
streets, since the radiant heat is held and then returned later. In the
event that blacktop contains gallium crystals, (most likely
mono-crystalline silica or any photo electric crystal), then by the laws
of conservation of energy, all the energy collected for electricity could
be reducing the heat energy from the blacktop, which is presently harming
the environment. The more that construction products operate to convert
collected radiant energy into solar electric energy, the less that the
products will contribute to global warming otherwise caused by radiant
energy that is returned into the atmosphere at night. In this way,
virtually every dark man made surface can be used to contribute to the
environment instead of harming it by way of global warming.

[0061]Although the teachings herein are described and shown in relation to
particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modifications
and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is
preferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by the
specific disclosure herein.